Everest Chola Pass Trek

A truly majestic trip to the Everest Base Camp starts through the charming view of Gokyo Lakes and cho la pass where you would be walking between the lofty mountains and the Ngozumba glacier. You will soon get excited to climb the small peaks while they appear right in front of you for the amazing views of the snow-clad Himalayas. The beautiful turquoise lakes in the Gokyo valley are divine, that makes one feel that heaven might have descended upon Earth. There are six main lakes. Among them Lake Thonak is the largest one. They are highest sacred fresh water lake system in the world. 

Another rewarding hike takes place at Gokyo Ri (5,360 m.). Located on the side of the Ngozumba glacier, the largest glacier in Nepal, Gokyo Ri is considered to offer one the best views of Mt. Everest and the subsidiary mountain ranges of Cho Oyu, Lhotse, Makalu, Tabotse and the entire Ngozumba glacier extending all the way. The view, of course, gives a lifetime of joy to the trekkers. 

Further on the way to Everest Base Camp, you go trek through the Chola Pass. It is considered thrilling and hazardous due to the steep trail marked by loose stones and rocks piled up on the side. The beautiful views of the Amadablam and Cholatse reward us like our next birth after ascending the rocky and slippery way. Finally, we reach beautiful village of Dzongla after scary exploration of some streams, huge boulders and difficult road. One can have an overnight stay here and get to know the local culture and traditions. One can also try to learn about the spiritual connection of the native Sherpas with the mountains. 

Having seen the groan of the Khumbu glacier on the right as we trek along the steep trail, we please our all senses with the rewarding views of the highest glacier and high peaks. You will reach Gorakshep after crossing quite a difficult trail with steep limbs, moraines, trails laden with rocks and boulders. This is the place where we can arrange our settlements and belongings because we return for the overnight stay after visiting Everest Base Camp. After having a night halt at Gorakshep, the next day is the pinnacle of the journey. This is the day of the trek when you finally reach the Everest base camp, and come back to Gorakshep by day end.

Though the highway to the camp seems better but the Khumbu Icefall looks challenging. As witnessed to the spectacle from Gokyo Ri, the view from the base camp may not be over the top, but the towering Lhotse Nuptse and the Khumbu icefall make for a charismatic setting and the climbers really feel worth to reach there. 

On the return journey, the hike up to Kala Paththar (5,645m) should be considered a must to be covered during the trek. It provides the awe-inspiring view of Everest and Khumbu Icefall, as well as Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori just above. 

Contouring down the valley side, you will turn up the Imja Valley to reach the charming village of Dingboche (4,410m). You will get a clear view of Lobuche peak from the top of the first hill. It will also offer the best view of Cho Oyu, the world's 6th highest mountain, Lhotse and Makalu. The trek faces many descents and ascents upto Dughla. Getting the stunning views all around, we reach to a small cluster of tea houses pleasantly located at Lobuche (4,920m).  An interesting fact about Lobuche is that the world’s highest bakery is located at Lobuche and is worth giving a visit.

On your return journey you will come across a small village named Tengboche. Tengboche (3,900m) is named after the ancient Buddhist monastery, the largest in the Khumbu region. This place also provides excellent views of Everest and its surrounding mountain ranges. A one-night halt is a must here. The very famous Tenzing Norgay, the first person ever to climb the Everest along with Edmund Hillary, hails from this region. You will also cross Dudh Kosi River in this region during the journey. Rhododendron trees and airy suspension bridge over the river will add an additional attraction somewhere around Deboche. Pangboche is another excellent destination that provides a breath-taking view of Ama Dablam (Mother's Charm Box).

Finally, you will return to Namche Bazar and take a much deserved rest for a night or two, maybe go to the very famous Irish pub, have a pint of beer. You will also find many bakeries and restaurants providing top notch services even at such remote location. 

This trek is challenging and arduous, it is not for the faint hearted. But for those who crave for adventure and love to be one with Nature, those who have the thirst to witness the mighty Himalayas up close, this is the exact trek you should be looking forward to. This trek will no doubt be one of the best and profound days of your life. You will return home with a large bouquet of memories that are worth cherishing throughout your lifetime!

Why someone do Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek in Everest Region?

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass is an adventurous excursion trip around Khummbu Region which takes you to some of the wildest and most spectacular areas of the Himalayas. The Gokyo Valley gives you the chance to lost in the glistening series of crystal clear glacier lakes and different spectacular views of Mt. Everest from Gokyo Ri 5,340m, while one of the high pass the Cho-la pass 5,545m draws the attention of trekkers from all around the globe for stunning views of Mt. Everest, Mt. Lhotse 8,516m, Mt. Makalu, Mt. Cho Oyu and gives the unforgettable experience. You will also get an opportunity to explore the Everest Base camp and Kala Patthar which allows the different views of Mount Everest and Mahalangur sub range of the Himalayas.

Best time for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass trek in Khumbu region

The months of February through May and The time from mid-September to November are considered as peak tourist season for trekking, hiking and expedition, due to friendly weather conditions accompanied by bright sunny days. The radiant mountains, verdant fields and the hillsides covered with colorful rhododendrons are the center for attraction during this season. However, to avoid the crowds of the peak seasons, the trek can be done around December, January and February with better preparation.

June to August is the season of monsoon hence, not suitable for trekking in Everest Base Cap via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass.

What kind of Food and Accommodation available on Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake Trek?

Accommodation

The Khumbu Region is well furbish and comfortable than other trekking routes in Nepal. You will get variety of hotel from budget to Luxury quality. Since the Everest is popular; you there are loads of hotels, tea houses and lodges along the way. However, not all accommodation has hot shower and other facilities in all settlements, particularly the budget ones. The facilities like   WIFI and electronic gadget charging are accessible in accommodation for extra charge.

The accommodation we offer in this package is basic two bedrooms room in sharing basis. The tea houses are basic of Nature. However, they do come with a mattress, blanket, pillow and sleeping bag.  We will provide you the hot shower facility on this package but for WIFI and the electronic gadget charging you will need to pay yourself.

Food

The local operative and serve tea houses are the most common eating places in Khumbu Region. The hotels, lodges and tea houses along the way provide a wide range of food items. The menu features Indian, Chinese, Continental and Nepalese local food. When you will reach to higher altitude fewer amount of fresh food and vegetables available. When you progress higher the costs also rise due to transportation.  The food and necessary items are carried by horse, mule, yak, people and helicopter.

Essential gear and packing list for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek

Trekking gears and clothes

Your clothing and trekking equipment plays the vital role to make your trip more joyful. Packing the unnecessary things can make harder, consider to packing only necessary gear and equipment helps you to fit as the trek is hard enough without an overloaded pack.  Here is the list of basic equipment which may help you to pack up your bag. If you are missing some gear or your language is out of stock; purchasing every gear can be expensive! If you are not a regular trekker or hiker then it’s better to hire your gear in Kathmandu before head to Lukla.

Footwear

• Trekking shoes: Must be fit and lightweight
• Slippers or sandals (For personal use in tea houses and city)

Clothing

• Non-cotton clothing for trek
• 2 t-shirts with under layer (e.g. running t-shirts)
• Fleece / soft-shell jacket
• Waterproof jacket
• Down jacket for warmth
• Underwear
• Trousers for under layer (optional)
• Waterproof pants
• Trekking pants
• Trekking shorts (optional)
• 4 thick trekking socks
• Lightweight and breathable trekking socks
• Gloves and woolen hat

Sleep (better to Buy or Hire in Kathmandu

• Sleeping bag
• Extra sleeping bag lining

Accessories

• One backpack: 30-60 liters
• A duffel bag or backpack (Max 20kg weight for the porters to carry)
• Drybag or waterproof cover for your backpack
• Water bottle/thermos: at least 2 liters.
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Personal medication
• Inhaler, blister plasters, etc.
• General toiletries, contact lenses, spectacles (if necessary)
• Towel
• Electronics
• Headlight, travel adapter, phone & charger
• Lip balm
• Book
• Hand disinfectant, biodegradable wet wipes

What kind of documents and permit needed for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek?

The Everest Base camp trek via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass and other Everest Region trek route stands on Sagarmatha National park. Sagarmatha National Park is world’s Highest Area’s National Park and it is also listed in UNISCO world heritage sites but it’s dominated by Mt. Everest, the highest peak in the globe. As with all treks in National Park; you need Saagarmatha National park Permit. The TIMS card (Trekkers Management Card) and National Park Permit (Sagarmatha National Park) is needed for trekking to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass. The TIMS card is mandatory to ensure for safety, and the security of trekkers in the trekking areas.  All the trekkers in Nepal must acquire TIMS card before start trekking. You will get the TIMS card and Sagarmatha National Park Permit form Nepal Tourism Board which is located in Bhirkutimandap, Kathmandu. You can also obtain the Sagarmath National Park Permit in the route from Lukla to Namche. The National Park Permit fee is 30 USD and TIMS card fees is 10 USD.

Documents

• Passport
• Travel insurance
• Passport size photos (some Copy)
• Dollars in cash
• Credit card (in case for emergency)

What kind of Preparation is needed for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Cho La Pass Trek?

Moderate level trekking’s is relatively less challenging which don’t require excessive planning and preparation. Although, trekking is meant to be and adventurous activity, it can be tough, depending on terrain, weather and higher altitude like Everest Base Camp.  Here are the some tips for preparation for beginners;

Physical Preparation for Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek

Trekking to Everest region in the rugged trails at high altitude isn’t easy. Several things make it more difficult. Hence, physical fitness is must for hiking to trails of Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass. Walking daily and play any games twice a week on average will help you keep the pace even on the extend trail.  If this is the first time that you are planning to trek in higher altitude, make sure you start at least a months on advance with an hour walk daily and give you time to acclimatize while in trip.

Mental Preparation for Everest Base Camp, Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek

You should be fit mentally as well as physical for accomplish Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass trek. Being aware of the challenges coming along the trail; you have to prepare strategically for long day hike and be well prepared for the trek; otherwise you may lose focus and be stressing out quickly. Not to mention, train self ahead of the trek as it helps to beat tough stretches of the trail. Set goals and keep working on them before you long and steep ascent. Your positive mindset and strong determination can help you to accomplish the Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass trek.

Difficulties of Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lake Chola Pass trek?

Altitude Sickness

Everest Base Camp via Gokyo lake and Chola pass trek goes up maximum 5,600m and it possesses a high risk of altitude sickness. Someone face varied symptoms of it at higher altitudes, especially for non-experienced and non-acclimatized trekkers. Thus, trekkers must give their bodies’ proper rest and sufficient time to adjust the weather and temperature in mountains. Hike slowly on the trail and avoid gaining excessive elevations as much as possible to face altitude sickness. Altitude sickness also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) caused by acute exposure to low practical pressure of oxygen on your body at high altitude. It commonly occurs above 3,000m. However, all people can ascend to 3,000 meters without difficulty.Someone face trouble of nonspecific symptoms, at high altitude in low air pressure.

Here are the primary symptoms of Altitude sickness

• Lack of appetite, nausea, or vomiting
• Fatigue or weakness
• Insomnia 
• Shortness of breath upon exertion
• Nosebleed
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Swelling of hands, feet, and face
• Persistent rapid pulse
• Drowsiness
• General malaise

Safety and Prevention

The guide has been train on the basis of technical competence, proven safety performance, impeccable judgment, friendly attitude and ability to provide expert instructions. We provide first aid kits and our Guide are very professional and well trained to use first aid protection equipment. We suggest proper acclimatize itinerary for beginners. Alcohol also causes to dehydration and exacerbates AMS. Ascending is the best way to avoid altitude sickness, alcohol and sleeping pills are strictly avoid to consumption.

Weather

Weather in the mountains is often hard to predict.  It is fluctuating from unnoticeable to a considerable so you have to prepare for extreme time while heading to Himalayas. You may need, retrace and steps back and use proper equipment to walk through stretches of snow.

Lack of Preparation

Beginners are more likely to have difficult situation due to an over or under preparation. Prepare beforehand will help you prevent the challenges and overstocking. Trekkers who don’t pack necessary equipment will face trouble during the trek. You must wear appropriate clothing to protect against cold and wind.

Extended Trails

Trekking to Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass may not easy as it looks! It’s a long trail more than 140km on a round trip.  You will have to spend 5-7 hours an average each day on hiking and you will walk through terrain of rocks, Ice slopes and glaciers so you must have enough stamina. You will stay in tea houses along the way and you can expect to get first class service.  You will have an only basic accommodation which comes as a disappointment for many of them.  The trails crossing Chola pass and Gokyo are most challenging trek route of all. It demands a few skills like ice climbing and using crampons as well as good stamina. You should be strong enough at last otherwise, you won’t stand a chance to reach your ultimate destination.

Is Insurance mandatory for Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake and Chola Pass Trek?

Travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers before trekking to higher altitude. It should provide adequate security for the trip to cover personal injury, medical expenses, helicopter rescue and loss of your language. Make sure that your insurance policy covers up to your treks highest altitude.